The First Captive Firing Test
for the First Stage Flight Model Tank
for the H-IIB Launch Vehicle

The Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. suspended the first captive firing test (CFT) today as we found a leak in the connecting part of the fire-prevention facility pipes. After taking proper measures, we verified that the fire-prevention facility including the leaked part worked without a problem. Therefore, we would like to perform the CFT on April 2, 2009 (Japan Standard Time.)

New CFT date

:

April 2 (Thu.) 2009

Test duration

:

10 seconds

Test site

:

Yoshinobu Launch Complex, Tanegashima Space Center

Test purpose

:

(1) Comprehensive verification test for the first stage propulsion system using the actual fright model tank.
(2) Confirmation of the interface between the core launch vehicle and the facility.

The test day is subject to change due to weather or operational conditions.